Discover family-friendly adventures in the Smoky Mountains, Tennessee, with the Sightseeing Flex Pass. From kid-friendly attractions to fun family activities, this blog is your guide to affordable family travel in Tennessee.
Adventure seekers, hey, hey! It’s time for a family vacation to the Smoky Mountains that will leave you asking, “Are we there yet?” But fear not—we have intimate knowledge of the top ten Tennessee family-friendly travel spots. All of these sights can all be reached with a single Sightseeing Flex Pass. Put on your seatbelts and let’s go on this crazy adventure!
Dollywood – Where Dreams Take Flight:
You’ve heard of amusement parks, but have you ever experienced one where imagination and fun come together like peanut butter and jelly? At Dollywood, your Smoky Mountains family vacation day will be packed with roller coasters, live entertainment, and delectable snacks. There’s no shortage of excitement for kids of all ages. Grab your swimsuits, and get ready to embark on a Smoky Mountain adventure that’ll have you asking, “Can we do that again?” We’ve got three awesome activities that are sure to make your family vacation unforgettable. From soaring like an eagle on the thrilling roller coaster to cooling off at Dolly’s Splash Country, and even conquering treetop challenges at Adventure Mountain, there’s no shortage of excitement for kids of all ages. Don’t forget that the Sightseeing Flex Pass allows you to skip the long ticket lines. This means less waiting and more exploring, which is a win-win for both parents and kids.
- Wild Eagle Roller Coaster – Soar Like an Eagle:
If you’re feeling daring, hop on the Wild Eagle coaster – it’s like flying with your hair on fire (not literally, of course). At Dollywood, you can embark on the thrilling Wild Eagle roller coaster. It’s like taking flight with wings of steel. Riders sit on either side of the coaster track with nothing above or below them, creating a sensation of flight. This wing coaster design provides an unobstructed view and a feeling of soaring like an eagle. You’ll twist, turn, and soar through the Smoky Mountains, feeling the wind rush past you. Kids love the sensation of flying, and the stunning views of the mountains make it even more exciting. Just remember, after this exhilarating ride, you might want to ask your parents, “Can we do that again?”
- Dolly’s Splash Country – Water Wonderland:
There’s nowhere better to cool off on a steamy Tennessee day than Dolly’s Splash Country. It’s an unparalleled water park! With your loved ones, you can slide, splash, and create a great splash. The thrilling experience of a roller coaster combined with a cool splash of water makes the RiverRush water coaster an absolute must-try. When you’re ready to unwind, take a tube and float down the lazy river; it will make you feel as though you’re going on a little excursion.
- The Adventure Mountain Challenge Course – Conquer the Treetops:
For young adventurers with a climbing bug, the Adventure Mountain Challenge Course is the place to be. It resembles a circuit of obstacles set high among trees. With a safety harness on, you can conquer zip lines, balance beams, and rope bridges. This course is like an adventure playground in the sky, and kids adore the experience of being way up in the air. Remember to encourage your parents to participate as well; it’s a task that the whole family should take on!
Hence, family-friendly entertainment abounds at Dollywood. These are just three examples of the activities available at Dollywood. Watch this space for an in-depth blog about what Dollywood has to offer. This Tennessee treasure offers something for every little explorer, whether they choose to soar like an eagle, make a splash, or take on treetop tasks.
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies – Dive into Adventure
Ever wanted to have a chat with a sea turtle or high-five a shark? Head to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and plunge into a world of underwater wonder. It’s like meeting the Little Mermaid, but without the singing crabs. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a popular and highly regarded attraction located in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. At Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, there are plenty of exciting and educational activities for families to enjoy. Here are four things you can do at the aquarium:
- Glass Bottom Boat Adventure:It has many marine exhibits but one of the unique attractions at the aquarium is the “Glass Bottom Boat Adventure.” Visitors can take a guided tour on a glass-bottom boat that glides over the Shark Lagoon, offering a rare opportunity to observe and learn about the underwater world from an incredible vantage point
- Underwater Tunnel Adventure: Follow a fascinating underwater tunnel to enter a fantastic underwater realm. You feel as though you are walking on the ocean floor as a range of marine life, including stingrays, sharks, and vibrant fish, surround you in the tunnel. The up-close looks at these gliding aquatic animals will wow kids.
- Touch a Stingray: Kids can contact and gently touch stingrays at Ripley’s Aquarium during a hands-on experience. Children may get up close and personal with these amazing sea creatures while learning about them through this interactive experience. The whole family will have a fascinating and instructive time.
- Penguin Playhouse: The Penguin Playhouse is one of the aquarium’s most well-liked features. Families may enjoy the lively antics of cute penguins in their natural habitat, which features underwater viewing places and ice terrain. Watching the penguins waddle, swim, and interact with one another will keep kids occupied for hours.
WonderWorks – Where Upside Down is Right Side Up
Are you ready for a topsy-turvy experience? WonderWorks is a place where science and fun collide. You can lie on a bed of nails, pilot a fighter jet, or even become a human lightning rod. Don’t worry; you won’t leave with your hair standing on end. For families with young children, WonderWorks is an engaging, hands-on entertainment center. WonderWorks offers three thrilling activities for you to enjoy:
Here are some exciting things you can do at WonderWorks:
- Lay on a Bed of Nails: Lie on a Bed of Nails: Have you ever been curious about the sensation of lying on a bed of nails? You may get this strange, defying-gravity feeling at WonderWorks. You could lie down on a bed of thousands of sharp nails and not get scratched. Both children and adults will be astounded and even a little confused by this mind-blowing exhibit.
- Pilot a Fighter Jet: Using the WonderWorks flight simulator, soar through the sky without ever leaving the ground. Children may operate a fighter plane and experience what it’s like to be professional pilots. It’s an exhilarating experience that mixes the security of solid ground with the exhilaration of flight. Ahead of you, several thrilling adventures await!
- Become a Human Lightning Rod: Become a Human Lightning Rod: Children can enter a Faraday cage and experience what it’s like to be a human lightning rod in WonderWorks’ weather-related exhibit. In a secure setting, this interactive display explains the fundamentals of electricity and lightning. It’s an exciting and instructive experience
Clingmans Dome – Touching the Sky
Clingmans Dome proudly holds the title of the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, as well as the highest peak in Tennessee. At an elevation of 6,643 feet (2,025 meters), it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges. On a clear day, you can see up to 100 miles in all directions, making it a favorite spot for stargazing, landscape photography, and simply enjoying the stunning vistas. It feels like you’re on top of the world. The view from the observation tower is jaw-dropping, and you can almost touch the clouds. Just remember to bring your sweater, as it’s a bit chilly up there!
The observation tower atop Clingmans Dome is the main attraction. It offers an unrivaled viewpoint for admiring the Smoky Mountains’ breathtaking scenery. The concrete and steel tower has a spiral slope that leads to the summit, where guests can stand and take in the breathtaking scenery. It’s an incredible experience, and the view is particularly alluring at dawn and dusk when the mountains are illuminated by golden light.
The Smoky Mountains offer a wide range of experiences, from thrilling rides to natural wonders. With the Sightseeing Flex Pass, you can have a taste of it all. Explore the depths of the ocean at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, fly like an eagle at Dollywood, and immerse yourself in history at the Titanic Museum Attraction. It’s a diverse selection that ensures everyone in the family finds something they love
Cades Cove – Wildlife Wonderland
Cades Cove offers you the opportunity to experience what it’s like to socialize with deer, bears, and wild turkeys if you’ve ever wondered. It’s a wildlife haven where you may go bicycling, on a beautiful drive, or even just have a picnic with your natural buddies. In the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cades Cove is a wildlife haven where you may engage in a variety of outdoor activities while taking in the park’s wide variety of species. You can engage in the following activities at Cades Cove:
-
- Scenic Drive: The 11-mile, one-way loop road in Cades Cove leads through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Smoky Mountains. A great approach to take in the landscape and keep a look out for wildlife is to take a drive. Along the way, you might come across black bears, deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of bird species.
- Biking and Hiking: There are riding and hiking opportunities in Cades Cove. Because of its relatively flat terrain, The Cove is a well-liked cycling location. Additionally, from early May through late September, there’s a special bicycle-only period on Wednesdays and Saturdays, during which the loop route is blocked to cars until 10 a.m. Hiking trails in the area, such as the Abrams Falls Trail and the Cades Cove Nature Trail, offer opportunities to explore the cove on foot and potentially spot wildlife along the way.
- Wildlife Viewing: Cades Cove is renowned for its wildlife sightings. It’s one of the best places in the park to observe white-tailed deer, black bears, and wild turkeys. Be sure to bring your binoculars and a camera to capture the incredible moments when you spot these animals in their natural habitat.
- Historical Sites: In addition to wildlife, Cades Cove is home to several historic buildings, including churches, cabins, and a working grist mill. These structures provide insight into the early European settlement of the area and add a cultural and historical dimension to your visit.
- Picnicking: Cades Cove has several picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal surrounded by the stunning mountain scenery. Pack a picnic and take in the fresh mountain air while you dine.
Remember to be respectful of the wildlife and maintain a safe distance when observing animals. Cades Cove is a natural treasure that offers a unique and immersive wildlife experience in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Anakeesta – Adventure Awaits
Ever wanted to take a chairlift through the treetops? Anakeesta lets you do just that. You can also explore the magical Firefly Village, hike, or brave the TreeVenture Challenge. Who knew treetops could be so much fun? Anakeesta Mountaintop Adventure Park is located in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Some of the things you can do at Anakeesta include:
-
- Chondola Ride: Anakeesta is accessible via a unique open-air Chondola ride that combines chairlift and gondola technology. The ride offers stunning views of the Smoky Mountains and the surrounding area.
- Treetop Skywalk: Experience a treetop canopy walk through a series of 16 connected sky bridges. These bridges allow you to walk among the trees and enjoy breathtaking views.
- Treehouse Village Playground: This area is perfect for families and kids. It features treehouse-themed play structures, a tree canopy walk, and interactive elements.
- Anakeesta Rail Runner Mountain Coaster: Take a thrilling ride down the mountain on a single-rail mountain coaster, where you control the speed of your descent.
- Dueling Zipline Adventure: If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, you can try the dueling ziplines, which allow you to race alongside a friend or family member.
- Vista Gardens: Stroll through beautiful, landscaped gardens and enjoy the vibrant flowers and scenic views.
- Shopping and Dining: Anakeesta also offers a variety of dining options, from casual to upscale, as well as unique shopping experiences with local artisan crafts and goods.
- Outdoor Fire Pit: You can relax by the fire pit and take in the views while enjoying s’mores or a hot drink.
- Photography Opportunities: With its stunning mountain vistas and lush gardens, Anakeesta is a great place for photography, offering numerous photo opportunities.
A combination of outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and family-friendly entertainment can be found at Anakeesta Mountaintop Adventure Park. Travelers seeking to take in the splendor of the Great Smoky Mountains and engage in a variety of leisure pursuits frequently choose this location. Please be aware that the availability of activities varies depending on the season and is subject to change. For the most recent information and operating hours, it’s a good idea to check their website.
Titanic Museum Attraction – An Iceberg Awaits
Ever wondered what it was like on the Titanic? The Titanic Museum Attraction lets you experience it firsthand. You can touch an iceberg, walk the Grand Staircase, and learn stories of passengers who sailed on this legendary ship.
The chance to travel back in time to the early 1900s and experience life on board the Titanic is available to visitors. Visitors are able to explore the museum’s numerous chambers and exhibits because it is built to resemble the interior of the ship.
A large collection of authentic Titanic relics, including personal belongings of passengers and crew, are housed in the museum together with comprehensive exhibitions that offer historical background and details about the ship’s construction, its passengers, and the events that preceded the disaster.
Visitors are transported back in time by the authentic and immersive experience created by the museum’s meticulous design and utilization of genuine objects.
For those who are interested in the terrible tale of the Titanic, the Titanic Museum Attraction offers a singular and unforgettable experience through the combination of history, storytelling, and interactive exhibits. It gives guests a feeling of historical connection and admiration for the individuals and occasions connected to this famous shipwreck
So, there you have it, a Smoky Mountains family vacation adventure fit for any curious explorer. Remember, it’s not just about the destination; it’s about the journey. You can enjoy their vacation without worrying about breaking the bank. It’s an opportunity to experience more while spending less. And trust us, this journey will leave you saying, “We’re here, and it’s amazing!”. You can choose the attractions they want to visit from a list of options. This means you can tailor your itinerary to suit your family’s preferences. Whether you’re into theme parks, museums, or outdoor adventures, the Sightseeing Flex Pass has you covered.
The Smoky Mountains offer a wide range of experiences, from thrilling rides to natural wonders. With the Sightseeing Flex Pass, you can have a taste of it all. Explore the depths of the ocean at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, fly like an eagle at Dollywood, and immerse yourself in history at the Titanic Museum Attraction. It’s a diverse selection that ensures everyone in the family finds something they love.
Creating enduring family memories is ultimately the greatest advantage. You’re all doing it together, whether you’re climbing Anakeesta’s treetops, investigating WonderWorks’ science exhibits, or admiring the Smoky Mountains from Clingmans Dome. This is an opportunity for valuable family time that you won’t want to pass up.
To sum up, the Sightseeing Flex Pass holds the secret to maximizing the possibilities of your trip to the Smoky Mountains. It’s the perfect travel companion for families who want to get the most out of their Tennessee vacation because it offers savings, convenience, and special benefits. Thus, don’t pass up this chance to improve your family’s Smoky Mountains vacation experience.
Stay tuned for more kid-friendly travel tips and tales. Until then, keep wondering and wandering!